As the start of the new school year approaches, scheduled for October 5, 2026, the Guinean government is working to alleviate concerns from social partners regarding the public service recruitment process. On September 29, 2026, in Conakry, Minister of Modernization of Administration and Public Service, Faya François Bourouno, held a press conference to affirm the government's commitment to upholding agreements outlined in various protocols.
The statement comes as 4,500 contractual municipal teachers not retained remain a pressing concern for the Education Intersyndicale. The government's recruitment announcement is made in a context of tension with education sector unions, which are demanding effective implementation of commitments outlined in the agreement signed on January 3, 2026.
Education sector unions are particularly concerned about the situation of contractual teachers. The Intersyndicale de l'éducation recently threatened to take strike action if its demands were not met. In response, Minister Faya François Bourouno sought to reassure stakeholders while emphasizing the importance of adhering to established recruitment criteria.
According to the Minister, the government is committed to respecting its engagements while ensuring a rigorous, transparent, and fair recruitment process. He stated that "all engagements contained in the various protocols will be respected, but all rules of rigor, transparency, and equal opportunities will also be respected."
Bourouno also acknowledged the risk of disruption on the eve of the school year and noted that negotiations with social partners are ongoing. He dismissed the idea of a breakdown in dialogue with unions, stating that "we are in constant consultation with our social partners" and that discussions will continue to resolve outstanding issues.
The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue to prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth service. He expressed confidence that ongoing consultations will allow for the resolution of issues and the achievement of objectives, preserving calm and ensuring the recruitment process meets its goals.
The situation remains closely watched as the school year is set to begin shortly. With the government's assurance to respect its commitments, stakeholders will be monitoring the recruitment process closely to ensure that the concerns of all parties are addressed.
Key points
- The Guinean government has reaffirmed its commitment to respecting agreements in the teacher recruitment process.
- The recruitment process aims to address concerns of 4,500 contractual municipal teachers not retained.
- Ongoing negotiations between the government and education sector unions seek to resolve outstanding issues ahead of the new school year.
